If you are worried that someone you know is showing signs of dementia, use these guidelines to check whether medical help is needed. Dr Philip Yap, a consultant at the department of geriatric medicine at Alexandra Hospital, said that these are some symptoms that may indicate underlying dementia:

Short-term memory loss: People with dementia may often misplace important items or forget appointments. A useful indicator is the gradual loss of ability to perform what they used to do well.

Time and place disorientation: People with dementia may lose their way and forget how to return home.

Poor or decreased judgment: For example, poor decision-making.

Changes in personality: They may become easily anxious and irritable.

Decreased interest or ability to perform familiar tasks and hobbies.

Loss of initiative and a tendency to isolate oneself socially.

This article was first published in Mind Your Body, The Straits Times.